Is it recommended to buy bus or train tickets in advance when traveling from Belfast to Galway, and then on a different day of course...going from Galway to Dublin?
My husband and I are doing a few nights in Belfast, then want to head to Galway and do a few nights there to do a couple day trips to Cliffs and Connemara, then will head to Dublin.
I don't think there's any cost saving to be realized by booking ahead, if that's what you're asking.
Although the trains are typically not crowded, to ensure that you get your first choice of itinerary you should consider booking as soon as your dates are firm, especially if there's a special event in one of your destinations that's likely to draw a crowd on a particular day or weekend.
Can pay the extra couple of Euros for a fully flexible fare if you're at all concerned about having to make changes later. The Irish Rail website will have the details.
